Leicester we forget – a tough test

by Mike Haymonds 06 Nov 09

SLOUGH Ladies face their toughest test so far this season when they travel to league leaders Leicester tomorrow (Saturday), hoping to inflict a first defeat on their opponents.

Leicester have a 100 per cent record after six games and a three-point lead over Reading and six over third-placed Slough.

After winning three successive Premier titles between 2004 and 2007 Leicester have finished third and fourth in the last two seasons but look in the form to reclaim their crown.

The loss of international Helen Richardson to Reading has been offset by the recent return of defender Crista Cullen after a year away in her native Africa.

Last season’s meetings ended all-square with each winning at home – Slough 2-1 and Leicester 1-0.

With a third of the season gone, both clubs must achieve a top-five finish to qualify for the end-of-season play-offs.

The league winner is guaranteed a place in next year’s inaugural women’s European Club Champions Cup while a second Euro slot is also available from the play-offs.

Slough expect to have Alex Scott and Natalie Bell back after missing the last game.

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Goalkeeper Sarah Ellis has joined Reading in a move which was not surprising.

Ellis, 26, has not played for Slough this season because of a knee injury and her place has been filled by current England international Becky Duggan, who switched from Trojans after week two.

Ellis has been recruited by Reading as cover for GB Olympian Beth Storry, a former Slough player, who is sidelined until February with a shoulder injury.

Ellis’s move means a tricky selection decision for Slough, when she returns from injury, has been averted.

Copy supplied to Slough Express & Slough Observer 06/11/09